JUST IN: Rams replace Matthew Stafford just now with unlikely Pro Bowl quarterback in free agency. Matthew Stafford confirm a departure to Pittsburgh Steelers

The Los Angeles Rams appear to have uncertainty at the quarterback position. Since their divisional-round loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, questions have arisen about Matthew Stafford’s future with the team. While Stafford himself has expressed confidence that he still has plenty of good football left, his wife, Kelly, has hinted at potential changes on both her podcast and Instagram.

If the Rams were to trade Stafford, they would need to find a replacement at the most critical position in football. Nick Villano of FanSided suggests that Sam Darnold, a breakout star from the 2024 season, could be the answer.

“This feels like something straight out of a storybook for Coach McVay,” Villano writes. “Darnold reached his full potential last season, but a rough playoff performance has made teams hesitant to give him a massive contract. Instead of competing with offers exceeding $40 million per year, he might find deals closer to half that amount. Darnold had a strong season, and playing in the Rams’ offense—alongside Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams—could allow him to thrive. Los Angeles would be an appealing destination, given the roster and market.”

Darnold had a breakout campaign with the Vikings in 2024, throwing for over 4,300 yards and 35 touchdowns while leading Minnesota to a 14-3 record before ironically being eliminated by the Rams. A move for Darnold would align with the Rams’ forward-thinking approach. His success in Kevin O’Connell’s system—who comes from the Sean McVay coaching tree—suggests he could be a great fit in Los Angeles if the team decides to move on from Stafford.